I bought a Brymen BM869s back in 2017... fantastic meter. It quickly became my 'daily driver'... & life's been ponies & rainbows ever since. Hadn't even heard of Brymen till Joe Smith started crowing over them. I have a Fluke 87V, but pulled it's battery a few months after the Brymen acquisition as it was no longer seeing use. Ordering from that TEM outfit in Poland was scary... however, it showed up promptly & well packed in 3 or 4 days. IIRC, it was
Thanks for the great feedback! I don't know why Brymen hasn't tried to sell in the US. Maybe they think its useless to compete with Fluke when people buy them blindly? I'm so happy that I learned about them. I think Joe Smith has done some great work!
@@KissAnalog In the case of the Brymen 869s, it looks like a rebadged version can easily be had in the US as a 'Greenlee DM-860A', but in Green, & for more money. Also, meant to mention in my original post... hope your up & feeling better soon!
Hello I think you meant TME, a well-known and respected company similar to DigiKey, Mouser, Farnell or RS Components. I bought my own Bryman BM869s in Poland but it's probably nothing special because I'm a Pole: D Best regards, Tristan
55:20, this is the part fluke 87 shines and maybe make it the all around meter. it is fast on capacitors due to its higher voltage output as its test reference or i don't know right now its term, but the idea of having a higher voltage is also the quicker to charge capacitors right?, like on diode tests, it outputs almost 7V 27:00 than the BM786 that is around 3V. and also the frequency limits 44:00. The best review for me.
@@KissAnalog Yeah! And almost 1/3 of the price from the yellow one. and well, no hurry on testing caps, no rush, 😄 I can wait for that. the accuracy VS its price against the yellow one makes it the real deal. Wish I could find a way to ship it here in the Philippines, untouched. 😁
Thanks David! I think the problem with the low count meter is that it has to travel through ranges too much. So unless the measurement is reduced to a small range - the meter has to auto range to the next range and you lose resolution. I like the high count meters that can cover a much larger range without switching up or down to the next range.
Excellent, thank you, I have been eyeing up Dave's meters BM786 and the 121GW for some time now, So impatiently waiting for the review of that one too lol. I do intend to be messing with power supplies and amplifiers etc, I'm in the market for 2 good meters, but Looking for one of them to cover the audio band and a bit more accurately. Oh, and hope you feel better soon!
Oh My God! Whatever you have has made you cough a couple times. Thank goodness you've found the obvious and easy strength to power through this horrible disease. Stay safe indeed.
Nice review. Regarding the bm786; it has one big competitor and it comes from Brymen itself, and it's the bm867s (the bm869s little brother for 75% it's price) The bm786 and bm867s are about the same price (here in europe at least, €160), but there are some feature differences I didn't expect, certainly because the bm786 is about 10 years younger. This bm786 doesnt have a computer interface (either BT or cable, which of course means you can log), which I think is strange for such a feature packed, high count, recently launched multimeter. Sure those Flukes also don't have it, but those are over 15 years old. It also doesn't have any dual display features, which the bm867s does offer. So I wonder if it's really progress, in a bm786 vs bm867s comparison: Dual display/computer interface/500k count versus autohold/autoblip/vfd. Though choice for a DMM in the €160 price range. Choosing between a Brymen and... a Brymen 😂🤣
Thanks for the great feedback GuidoK! The Brymen meters are very impressive and I do like the models that have dB function which I wish this model had. I have a Greenlee DM-830A meter which I think is similar to the BM867. amzn.to/3HiO71u
@@KissAnalog I think the Greenlee DM-830a is similar to the Brymen BM829, not the BM867s. The BM867S is a 50.000count meter with 500.000count mode in DC ranges. The greenlee DM830a is a 9999count meter, like the BM829.
I’m trying to decide between the 867, the 789 and Dave’s 786. TME’s website doesn’t do a very good comparison of the 789 and the 867. I really like the 869, but I don’t want to spend quite that much for a hobby meter.
@@KissAnalog this BM786 doesn't have dBm? That never occured to me (I don't have this meter, I have the BM869S). For professional audio work that is indeed a nice function to have. 0,775V 600ohm😁. Looks like that is pretty exclusive to the bm800 series. I'm thinking of buying a 2nd meter; but it looks more and more like it's going to be the bm867s (or another bm869s). I also wonder if this meter has the same calibration procedure (same button presses etc) as the 800 series has. That's a must for me. Too bad we almost never see a glimps of what's in the pipeline. Is there a new top model coming? BTW there is a typo in the title of this video, it says EEVblog BM768, and it's of course BM786
I've still got my Techtronic's multimeter from the 80's and its still works to perfection. I've been doing electronics for over 40 years in 3 countries just love the trade.
Thanks for this feedback! I love my Tektronix multimeters;) I need to review them - but then I'm afraid I'll never be able to find them on ebay!! LOL Which models do you have?
Sold my Fluke 87V and got the Brymen BM867S. Couldn't be happier My only criticism of the 867/869 is that the auto-ranging bargraph is too low down in the screen area and can be difficult to see. The BM785 / 786 / 789 seems to have addressed this and is a little bit higher up. No PC link though which is a shame....
Thanks for your feedback! The Brymen meters are very impressive. Yes the Fluke 87 can read the duty cycle of higher voltages, but the Brymen can read crest factor which I think is more useful.
Plastic tips on the shroud is to prevent contact, helping with the safety rating on a loose lead. Get well soon, I hope no long lasting after effects. The newest leads I got were Uni T, got them cheap, and they are not bad at all for the price, and feel nice enough. Cost more than the cheapie meter ones, but will last a lot longer in use.
Thanks - you are so right! Who wants to touch circuits if you don't have to;) But then I've seen some that use their fingers after wetting them in their mouth. EEKS!
Operation in EF mode for BM786 when using probe to touch wire and to detect live wire have to be done not with the red probe but with the black one (COM). According to the manual. In this case it will pickup less interference. When measuring AC you also can press Hz button and measure frequency and a duty cycle. In this mode possible also use REC button with frequency data to see min and max of frequency and / or duty cycle if this fluctuates for some reason. It is not shown I believe in manual
Take your time. Im waiting patiently for your level of review on the EEVBlog 121GW. The stars haven't lined up for me to buy one- it's either when I have the money I have to buy another tool or it's sold out... I have to say this, that older Fluke you were showing still holds its own against those youg'ns.. (when a bar graph is that smooth it helps you track down a loose connection 😉)
Thanks for the review. On the 789 I would have liked the A and the mA function on a different position of the switch, like the 785 has (but it is lacking other functions). Can't easily beat the Fluke for intuitive operation -can't beat the price either though!
Hi, thanks for sharing. Where does the BM 789 fall into category can't seem to find very many RUclips videos on that one. Is it not a good meter? Anyone willing to chime in seems that the 786 and the BM 869 to be more popular is that just because it's cheaper or am I missing something? Thanks.
Great question! I think the 789 and 786 are very close and share the same circuit board if I'm not mistaken. It could be a simple thing as a price difference and what is available from common vendors, e.g. Amazon has the 786: amzn.to/46ipMGC
Great video, thanks man. I got the BM789 as soon as it was available in the UK. It's my main meter now - the only one that never goes back in its case. I have 3 flukes, one's virtually retired now, one's in the car kit, and one's a backup for the Brymen
Get BM786 you won't be disappointed. Absolutely fantastic machine...Even ergonomically holding this meter with the left hand and checking with probes with the right hand it possible to operate by left hand buttons with minimal effort.
Hi good review as usual.......im intrested to see you review a Agilentu1242b...i had a fluke since i was 19 a sidepush button on grey colour and used itforover30 yrs till the case dry rot.So i came across the Agilent on ebay and saw some good reviews on it had more functions than the fluke.After i got it was surprised about the sub features...in addition to being accurate.
Thanks for the tip! I do want to get an Agiliant, but I haven't found a great price yet. I have to watch how much I spend on this channel as I spend more than I make;) I'll do it this year though... I also like the Testo meter especially for the low price.
Thanks for the great question! All meters that I know of have specs for accuracy that include tolerance and how many digits can fluctuate - most times just the last digit but sometimes the last 2 digits - by so many counts. These high count meters give more digits for better accuracy. Do higher digit counts should provide better accuracy and usable digits. Make sense?
@@KissAnalog I guess they should provide better accuracy. But what if a meter's accuracy in many modes is only 0,1% or even 1% yet it has 20000 or even 60000 counts? What is the meaning of those constantly fluctuating last digits? I've seen that quite often with UNI-T upper models. Wouldn't it be better just hide (don't display) those unusable (useless) digits? Besides it's not quite clear what electronics does require such precise measurements. One count of a last digit in a 60000-count meter is worth only 0.00167%, right?
Great questions! Typically the higher count meters that have processors that can resolve those higher counts so also are higher accuracy. The other important bonus - which I try to show with these is that they keep counting (measuring) up in voltage (or current or resistance) higher before they have to switch ranges. So it is like a car with many gears that make it more difficult to feel the car shifting vs a car with 4 gears where the shifting is more clunky. So when you are measuring 6.55 V that's what you get with a 6000 count meter and you understand that you can really only count on the 6.5 V reading as the last digit is less reliable. So with a higher count meter you get 6.555 V reading meaning that you can count on the 6.55 V reading. Make sense?
Don't get me wrong, there is just something about the fluke that you feel confident when measuring mains and 1Kv circuits.....Industrial/mining electrician
You are right, and great example of CAT ratings!! I would feel equally as safe using other top tier meters, i.e., FLIR, Amprobe, Ideal, and Hioki to name a few that are safety certified for CAT IV environments;). But when it comes to mining operations - you want a meter meant to work around explosive atmosphere, and there are only a few meters with that safety rating like the Fluke 28 II.
Glad to see these meters in operation! A lot of comparison of the number of Digits, but what about ACCURACY? The Fluke 79iii seemed to read consistently lower DC and AC voltage, and F87V and BM786 disagreed by several digits. Other than having a larger voltage span before switching ranges, what good are all of those digits if the value is not as accurate? For example, the 100uF capacitor read 107.5/114.5/105.9uf for each of the meters. which was most accurate? The DC offsets were 5.00V/5.1069V/5.009V, with BM786 showing quite a difference. I am also considering the Greenlee DM-830, although I don't like its bargraph (why 41 segments with marks every 4 steps?) Thanks again.
All reviewers simply discard the last two digits with the words "this is normal." But the brymen have a bandwidth of up to 7kHz, as well as a strange method of measuring capacitance. Fluke band up to 20 kHz.
Great questions! If you do the math - they fall within their specs. The BM786 has the better specs in many cases, but for each place on the dial the specs are different, so it does take some time to go thru them all. I've never seen a reviewer show a meter is out of spec. The last digit and maybe 2 in some cases fluctuate beyond the tolerance and is spec'd in +/- digits. The more digits - the better as then you have more digits that are stable and fall within the accuracy. This is why a high count meter is so useful.
Thanks for your feedback. Actually the BM786 bandwidth follows its specs to 7 kHz (most meters go to 1 kHz), but it will read up to 100 kHz but falls out of the tighter specs. The Fluke 87 goes to 20 kHz (not the other Fluke used here). For almost half the money, the BM786 is very impressive. The capacitance measurements of all these meters are not as high tolerance as V, C, and Ohms. Greenlee meters are Brymen rebranded meters for Greenlee, so that must be why it is not easy to find Brymen meters in the states. The Greenlee DM 860 which I have has a BW out to 100 kHz
Greenlee are rebranded Brymens. I do a lot of audio design and building. I have been using a BK Precision bench multimeter since college and have three cheaper handhelds. I wanted to invest in a better hand held meter and was looking at Flukes but man, too expensive as they were back in the day..... LoL. After much research, I bought a Greenlee dm820a // aka Brymen. It's a hefty meter and does what I need with great ease. I find the continuity response very quick and loud.
Thanks Mark! I also have a BK meter that I've had for many years;) I'll have to review this to show how meters do actually last for a long time if not abused. I have the Greenlee DM830A which I really like. It is a full size meter. I'll have to review that one day.
I have been waiting for this video, and now I know why it took you a while! So sorry you caught that crud, and hope you are back to normal soon! I don’t see the meter e en listed on Amazon now. If we buy it directly from Dave, does it only bill us $145 in the US?
That’s a great question - thanks! I think it was because Fluke changed vendors for these screens. But that was something I heard some where but makes sense why they would change. Or maybe they know their screens are not great and this was supposed to be an upgrade? Maybe works better with the poor backlight?
I love Brymen multimeters. For me so far they had only one deficiency - wasn't capable to lit up blue and white LEDs. Now I see that BM786 CAN do that. Amazing, seems I finally found my new multimeter :)
Thank you! I find that the Fluke meters that I purchased in recent history have terribly stiff leads (the TL75), and even though they are the same model as my older Flukes have - they are very stiff. They must have changed something and for the price of these meters they should come with much better leads. See this video: ruclips.net/video/JSD9f6I4p8g/видео.html
But do you like it? 🤣🤣 I just bought this meter 3 days ago and it is on its way! It was so difficult for me to choose a multimeter, but this along with another review of yours put it over the top. I didn't see this review before I bought it just the other review, I am so happy after seeing this video. There are some concepts I need to learn about. My first project will be recapping and modifying my Hafler DH-220 pre-amp from the mid-80s. Thanks!
@@KissAnalog will do thank you. I need to review your video, I thought you said that AC and DC could be on the same signal, you kind of lost me as I didn't think that was possible. I'll go back and listen again. Thanks for your VERY helpful reviews, I am thrilled I bought this meter.
@@KissAnalog I just noticed I referred to the DH-220 as a pre-amp, the DH-220 is an amp, I have it also. But my first project will be the DH-110 Hafler pre-amp. A company called Musical Concepts makes upgrade boards, kits and components for it. After that I'll get into the DH-220 Amp. Next purchases are a vacuum solder suckerer and isolation transformer, if you have any suggestions. By the way, the meter was supposed to arrive tomorrow the 22nd, it is arriving today! Under promising and over delivering is a terrific business goal.
What I mean is there can be a ripple voltage on the DC, so essentially it can be looked at as an AC wave riding on a DC voltage. Also, there could be an AC signal offset with a DC voltage. That's why the higher end meters can read AC + DC and show them both in the display.
They are both great meters but the BM789 adds a few more features: AutoV LoZ, dBm, a second temperature probe, and 100MHz bandwidth. But check me to be sure;) Here's the link to the BM786: amzn.to/3O8IB7O
Dude rest and get well. Thanks for the effort in making the video. And by the way, i agree with you, Flukes are overpriced. Your arguments about it are solid
LEADS... the small caps on leads... I think the reason they come on brand news leads is... TO GIVE SUPPORT DURING STOREAGE, so the ends do not sqash down. Or, the obvious, dirt does not get in.
That’s a great question! But I have a question; why would a calibration be required? Most people don’t realize today that a calibration, especially with multimeters, is not a matter of dialing in some pots to get correct readings. It is simply a verification that the meter still reads correctly. Today or even meters made 30 years ago, things just don’t drift much. Large chips do most of the work. If you are running a test for a customer that requires your equipment to be calibrated, then send out to a cal lab that handles these certificates.
@@KissAnalog This is fine, yet aging and temperature etc exposure and slow change in values of capacitors and non linear character of the changes etc will affect this over the period I would say one year? Since all coefficients are in the chipset this is unlikely these will change. And from the practical point of view it is better (cheaper) just to buy a new meter after few years if the procedure kept "secret" from users? I mean after all if this reads close enough it is fine for most practical applications as long as it within the specs..but this is the whole point of calibration? Some doing comparison now and then between groups of meters and tend to think this is the "practical enough". It just simply would put this meter way ahead of the crowd. The meter is so great and well designed that if it ever breaks (which i cannot see how it is would be happening since even the much lower meters are still good enough after several 5-7 years etc) we simply will buy two more just to have it since it ticks all boxes for a very good and well thought meter, never mind if batteries consumption slightly higher, but this is resolvable via use of lithum batteries etc. What surprises really that once you start working with this meter, ergonomically it is just hits the right spot (light could be less brighter for a total darkness..may be..and would love to see glowing buttons for e.g. and red diode on continuity and nS range to 200nS and internal temperature displayed when no leads shorted for that, stright after rotating dial but this is all not critical just would be nice to have. One engineer mentioned to me that dual temperature is the "wow factor" in another Brymen he has. All I did is a switch attachement between two K-probes..to get close function...Yes, you cannot "measure the difference"..but you have relative button I said to him and with the switch of two K pairs you can..measure the difference..and technically this is better approach as it does not requered "this specific with dual probes" mode multimeter. In fact the switch has three positions 1-internal temperature, 2- K1 and 3d - K3 temperature..And it all just works wonders when chasing a difference in certain cituations..Continuing down this path and very soon it will have hFE simple attachement..
Thanks for your feedback. Meters built in the last 20 years or so will not go out of calibration for years - the caps and resistors simply do not change that much. Calibrations do not adjust the measurements - they simply show that the meter is still in working order - and therefore providing correct measurements. it will take many years for a meter to fall out of calibration because of drift. If you are doing work for the military or big customers - then you need to show that your equipment is in cal - which simply means in good working order. This meter can be calibrated by a calibration shop just as most other quality meters. If you don't have the expensive equipment to certify calibration - then there is no need to calibrate.
I really like the overall review of usability for the meters. However, I noticed that you spent a lot of time talking about the counts for the meters but you sort of glossed over whether or not those count readings were any good. Both of the meters had pretty divergent readings, so what good is the count if they aren't true to any sort of standard? I guess, if you could do some sort of follow up with precision standards so we can see just how good the meters are?
Thanks Marc! Great feedback! I need to show how both meters are in cal, but what the range of values can be - and how the final digits have +/- digit resolution. All meters have a resolution issue with the final digit and sometimes the final 2 digits - which goes beyond the tolerance spec'd.
I hope you and your family are well now! I do not hope it has been to hard. LOL, yes the Brymen multimeters are on another level and has shown itself as a worthy contender as the top meter. I am wondering if the very, very expensive Gossen is better, but I doubt it. Lastly, maybe you could ask the former CEO to contact you when you make the next video about Micro cap? It would be fantastic if you could get contact to him!! :-)
Thanks Fried Mule! I appreciate you! I am feeling better and will get on with videos again;) I'll try to reach out again and see if I can get a response, but sadly I think he may have finally retired;)
Is it worth paying more to keep your fellow Americans employed? I mean....what if they looked at YOUR product or service and said they could get it cheaper from overseas or from a foreign worker? Where does it end?
Great question - and I am with you - but most Flukes are made overseas, and their designs are 20 plus years old, so we are not even supporting the engineering. So - unless it is said to be made in America - it is likely made overseas. The only one you are supporting is the stock holders - the wealthy. I don't like that. I also show other actual American companies like Ideal, Extech, and Flir. And yes, while their stuff is manufactured overseas - at least they have engineering here in the states...
@@KissAnalog I even try to buy North America as opposed to overseas. And if overseas then Taiwan. I don't know. I've been preaching buy made in USA since I was 14 years old in 1970 and I don't think anyone cared not one iota. Nobody cares at all. I first became aware of Buy Made in USA when they built a new bridge in our town. The Iron Workers hung a sign off the bridge that said: "Buy Made in USA. The Job You Save May Be Your Own." Then I noticed all the foreign cars in our small town of 5,000 as I rode my bike down the blocks. Back then it was VW Beetles and Toyotas and Datsuns. It started out with dads buying their daughters an affordable car for college. Next thing you know dad is driving a Camry. And the rest is history. The new hire kids at work are young enough to be my grand kids......I doubt the subject even crosses their mind.
@@KissAnalog At work now I find myself checking out a Fluke 1587 instead of using my own meter. The 1587 includes a meggar. I love it. I'm not sure where it's made though.
I know what you mean - I bought american made cars up until my last one... I just couldn't afford the repairs anymore. Today it seems that 'Made in America' is very hard to find. I like the Ideal meters as they are still an american company;)
I have the 1587 too, but I'm bugged that they have not tried to keep up or drop their prices a little to compete. The new generation doesn't care who they are...so one day they are going to wake up and say - what happened??
Thanks for the great question! What Fluke would that be? I show one that is only a bit higher in price and one that is around double the price, but as you point out - they don't compete in specs to the BM786.
Fluke is going down the same road as IBM, the big name facto 😳i use Fluke when there is an intense break-down on the factory floor and lots of engineers are involved, no one doubts Fluke 😵💫 however 90% of the time i use good quality hobby test equipment with great results 🥳and the BM768 is tempting 🤔 hope you get feeling better covid is a wild subject 👳♀ PS i purchased a: $56 YR2050 Milliohm Meter Handheld DC Micro Ohm Meter Low Resistance Meter Tester for example: 1Ω 0.01mΩ ±(0.12%+0.03%) not much English but it seems to work ⛷☕🥧 thanks
@@KissAnalog Indeed. So much so that I was led to wonder if the BM786 might even match the 121GW meter. I put a detailed comment under your 121GW review video, by the way. Look forward to seeing more info on that! Thank you!
this multimeter is obtained with the green lee brand the DM860A, but the DM830A is the same as the fluke 87 v with a little more functions these green lee multimeter are excellent nothing to compare to fluke ok
Brymen does a nice job. They somehow remind of a German design/construction than Asian. You ought to reach out to Rohde & Schwarz and Fluke to see if they'll loan you one of their handheld oscilloscopes for demonstration/review. I'm conflicted between the R&S RTH1022 Scope Rider and the Fluke 190-102-III ScopeMeter. The RTH1022 is on sale until 31 Mar 2022...decisions, decisions.
Thanks Boyd! I'd like to get my hands on both scopes. I've used the Fluke but not the R&D. From the specs, I think I'd go for the R&D for the 10bit vertical res and the larger screen that is also better utilized. Have you considered for less than half the price, the MicSig STO2302C which is now 300MHz , and has a larger screen, 2GSa/s, 280Mpts (far deeper memory). amzn.to/32IWILX Unless you need a compact portable unit, this is a lot of money for what you get (unless the MicSig works). For instance, a PicoScope gives a whole lot more for that amount;)
@@KissAnalog I believe it was one of your reviews that turned me on to Micsig. I did look at the STO2302C, but I'm requiring a handheld instrument and for all the I/Os to be completely isolated. I looked at their MS200 series also, as well as Pico. But, just like you, I am leaning hard towards the R&S Scope Rider...with the promotional discount and additional member discounts from TEquipment (and possibly I can negotiate an additional battery be thrown in the deal) it seems like the best deal around for possibly the best handheld on the market. Coincidentally a R&S CS Rep called me last week about my opinions on some R&S webinars I've attended lately and during the conversation I mentioned the Scope Rider and Fluke's ScopeMeter possibly in the same sentence hehehe. He did say he'll give my contact info to my regional R&S sales rep and setup a dog and pony meet and greet lunch at our office. Maybe they'll let me have a Scope Rider for 30 days free for field evaluation. Really the only reason I'm looking at the Fluke ScopeMeter is because the "III" version is fairly new and the R&S Scope Rider came out about six years ago. Anyway, glad to hear you're on the downside and hopefully can kick the cough quickly and it doesn't linger even after your totally negative and feeling good otherwise.
Thanks Boyd! I think the Fluke has been around for awhile (hardware) so it seems more dated to me. I like the controls and the display on the R&S. Also, the 10bit res is very nice and usually found only on more expensive scopes. It also has deeper memory. I don't think you will be disappointed;) Actually I do have my Tek THS730 with all that came with it that I'm going to put up for sale;)
It seems the Brymen does not show the bargraph in mV mode and it’s a lot slower in that setting as well compared to the two Flukes. Still it’s a better meter functionality-wise over them and I think it sits in between the Fluke 87V and the old 187/189 (which still is my favorite and always go-to meter) even though it’s age.
He has the meter (accidentally?) in AC+DC mode. In that mode the bargraph always disappears and I guess refresh is always slower as 2 measurements + calculations have to be made. In normal mode the bargraph just shows in mV range as it shows in V range.
@@KissAnalog there's a 786 by a third party seller on Amazon but a fluke 87 costs more do its obviously marked up. There's a brymen Canada site but I haven't a/b the features. I'm happy with my meters for now. I need an lcr because I have a bunch of coils and common mode chokes and such. I have like 5 aneng 870s ordered now so I'll have to hound the wife hahaha. I want to build a working smps. I figure I need an lcr meter for the parts I have to put them in the best spots. I'm leaning towards an older hold peak even though it looks like an 80s hand held game but allegedly performs better than the mesr 500 which is actually cheaper.
@@KissAnalog I got a really nice powered 7000 tie point breadboard that can take up to 300v 4amps haha it can output 2 separate voltages and has other features. I got it from Amazon dirt cheap and it was super expensive on digikey. I don't expect the smps to be efficient or anything. The only thing I need is the driver ic that switches the mosfets and connects to the feedback.
Man, Eddie just duzn’t likes ole’ Fluke meters?! 😯 Hope Youre doing well these Days. I read one of your comments on some blog, and You were raging about the 15B/17B+ meters! Wow So I’m still gonna ask You what’s your thoughts on the Fluke 117, and the 107? Intended use is in Electrical, not electronics. EEVblog reviewed the 117 and ave it a thumbs up, just wondering what say You? Take care stay safe and well.
Thanks for asking. I have to tell you - for most of my engineering life I loved Fluke - it was all I knew. Now that I have started this channel, I see how much I have missed. The 117 is great - at half the price. There are a number of meters that are far better for the price IMHO. The Testo 760-2 is a fantastic example. It comes with very nice silicone leads and has a much better dispaly - no comparison. IMHO it beats the 117 in every function and feature. I think Dave is awesome - but look who advertises on his Blog. I have no affiliation with anyone. No one pays me anything - never has. So, it is my honest humble opinion as an engineer working in the field as an engineer for more than 25 years;) This channel has opened my eyes;) Maybe if I were like other channels I'd not have to work a real day job;)
@@KissAnalog Thanks for the replies. I have to tell You, I respect your opinion, and your knowledge, and my ole’ brain tries to learn something from each video of Yours. 😆 I DO agree that prices on some of these older Flukes are high. 117 doesn’t need to be priced at the nearly $300.00 USD! I. guess Fluke needs the money? I picked up a new one for a little over $210.00. I’m not EVEN going to ask YOU about the 15B+/ 17B+ METERS! I will have to look into this Testo 760-2 You speak of. I will see if You have a review of it on your channel. Appreciate You and your knowledge and experience. Take care!
Great question! The VFD feature is for (Variable Frequency Drive), and it is essentially a low pass filter meant to filter the noise from a motor. It should be a good feature whenever the power line noise is bad.
Thanks so much! I appreciate you! I first go to subscribers - and then as I have time I try to get to them all. Some have questions that might take some time to answer;)
For some reason, I've seen a bunch of these anti-Fluke videos pop up in my list. I can agree that there may be better value DVMs, the majority of Flukes are bought by companies and corporates. They can quantify the cost of a fatal or serious accident (in my country, $5m), and the Fluke reputation for fail-safe operation, whether deserved or not, makes it a no-brainer. The global mining company I worked for had one serious accident with a non-Fluke multimeter, where it blew up in an electrician's face, and banned anything else worldwide. Some bean counter thought he could save a couple thousand $ a year, and as a result, blinded and nearly killed someone. Around the house, I have several DVMs, and tend to use whatever is handiest when working on DC, but only use the Fluke when working on mains. You are farting against thunder.
Thanks Neil for the feedback! In mining work you need to use a meter that is safety certified to work in explosive atmospheres. Fluke makes the 27 for that purpose and it does cost more - which in this case it is worth it. Unfortunately, Fluke will lose its hold and the newer generation will buy other meters that are just as safe with better functionality at half the price. I was a Fluke fan until starting this channel and lifted my head out of the fog. Many large companies (like the defense contractors that I worked for) buy Fluke without thinking. Not that they are the safest, but because there are so many other expensive equipment to buy that the multimeter isn't even considered. That will change.
I can't understand why people pay so much for a fluke when cheaper meters can do the job. But I guess it's the reputation kinda liked Mercedes vs Volkswagen. Both gets the job done but one carries a prestige and reputation so if you're not using a fluke customers don't take you seriously.
Thete are plenty of descriptions can be found where serious incidents occured and electricians died unfortunately in these events and they were using Fluke's multimeters. I would not idealised *any* meter.
Is there a way to add a question about a off topic question? Looking to model old railway relays from the 79's thru 90's such as the now used Siemens st-1's. How can I simulate these relays in something such as Micro-Cap. I just watched your video on switches in Micro-Cap.. The ones I am trying to model and simulate are multi-pole and both neutral, neutral-biased and polarized relays. I was hoping for a library of these but I cant find one that exists.Any help appreciated Dan
All DMMs are certified and tested in the same way, no matter what brand it is. I don't like when products are rated by their appearance. "Measurement confidence, robustness, reliable parts" can be found in any known brand. In fact, I remember about the GSM issue of the 87V, but it's still seen as a "robust design", even if it's the only meter doing this. What measurement confidence to expect if it might be influenced by electric/magnetic fields. I don't think it's worth the price for the look & feel of Fluke meters and has nothing to do with the quality and certification.
Totally agree with your comments on the Fluke leads. They're cheap garbage. Absolutely no reason they shouldn't all have silicone leads considering the price they charge. Shame on Fluke!
So I use meters at work all the time...so check in with this channel from time to time...one thing I've noticed...is the number of times you compare other meters to Fluke...the only conclusion is that Fluke is the best - roll your dice with this other meter you recommend. I have Fluke meters and other meters I cannot even remember their names. EVEN in your "Fluke rant" your talk about Fluke meters. If anyone takes anything away from your meter vids is that (as I stated above) Fluke is the best and roll your dice with these other meters I like.
Thanks for the feedback - but I'm dissapointled that you haven't actually watched these comparison videos - as you would have simply found that Fluke (IMHO) does not stand up to the competition. I too have sadly used Fluke my whole career up until I started this channel. I have since found so many better meters - as the EEVBlog BM786 for example. Yes, I use Fluke as a comparison - so that people like me that have used Flukes for so long and have that as their only reference - that I find it a great way to compare. Especially since Flukes are so over priced - again my opinion. Of course I talked about Flukes in my rant - it was about the over priced Fluke;) They are not only overpriced, but they provide the worst test leads in the industry - IMHO. I find it crazy that people know this and know that they will replace the junk leads for silicone leads as soon as they buy their beloved Fluke. So, if you have been paying attention - there are many meters out there for lower cost that out perform the Flukes. So, I review other meters so that you don't have to roll the dice. There are great meter brands out there - even the Amprobe AM570 which is owned by the same company that owns Fluke - which is far better option and comes with awesome test leads. But misconstrue what I say, suggest, and recommend - and buy Fluke if you like. There are fan boys and there are educated buyers - and at this channel I hope to educate the buyers. But of course - this is all IMHO;)
Nice video, glad you liked it!
Thanks so much!! It is a fantastic meter - especially for the reasonable price. Where would you recommend that our viewers purchase it?
I bought a Brymen BM869s back in 2017... fantastic meter. It quickly became my 'daily driver'... & life's been ponies & rainbows ever since. Hadn't even heard of Brymen till Joe Smith started crowing over them.
I have a Fluke 87V, but pulled it's battery a few months after the Brymen acquisition as it was no longer seeing use.
Ordering from that TEM outfit in Poland was scary... however, it showed up promptly & well packed in 3 or 4 days.
IIRC, it was
Thanks for the great feedback! I don't know why Brymen hasn't tried to sell in the US. Maybe they think its useless to compete with Fluke when people buy them blindly? I'm so happy that I learned about them. I think Joe Smith has done some great work!
@@KissAnalog In the case of the Brymen 869s, it looks like a rebadged version can easily be had in the US as a 'Greenlee DM-860A', but in Green, & for more money.
Also, meant to mention in my original post... hope your up & feeling better soon!
Thanks so much! I appreciate you!
Hello
I think you meant TME, a well-known and respected company similar to DigiKey, Mouser, Farnell or RS Components.
I bought my own Bryman BM869s in Poland but it's probably nothing special because I'm a Pole: D
Best regards, Tristan
@@tristankordek Your absolutely correct! I stand corrected... Thanks!
Thanks for doing the video in spite of being ill. We are all rooting for you to get better soon.
Thanks so much Raya! I appreciate you!
Eddie one tough Hombre, no? I am sure he is fine by now. Great comments in this Community.
Thanks Eddie for another great video. Wishing you a speedy recovery
Thanks so much Michael - I appreciate you!
Another great video Eddie. Sorry to hear of your Positive condition. Speedy recovery mate.
Thank you! I appreciate you!
Hi Eddie, another great video. Wishing you a fast recovery. Thank you
Thanks so much! I appreciate you!
I just purchased the Brymen BM869s and I LOVE it!!!! I love your content! Keep up the great work! Joe smith tested the Brymen and it did GREAT!!
Awesome! Thank you! Let us know how you get on with it:)
after watching this review and reading all the comments I just got a BM869s too
55:20, this is the part fluke 87 shines and maybe make it the all around meter. it is fast on capacitors due to its higher voltage output as its test reference or i don't know right now its term, but the idea of having a higher voltage is also the quicker to charge capacitors right?, like on diode tests, it outputs almost 7V 27:00 than the BM786 that is around 3V. and also the frequency limits 44:00. The best review for me.
Thanks so much! The BM786 is much lower cost too;)
@@KissAnalog Yeah! And almost 1/3 of the price from the yellow one. and well, no hurry on testing caps, no rush, 😄 I can wait for that. the accuracy VS its price against the yellow one makes it the real deal. Wish I could find a way to ship it here in the Philippines, untouched. 😁
Hey Ed, great to see you. Great job on the review, I've had the Fluke 179 for years and really like it.
Thanks Randy! It is a real complement coming from you!
You do a great job with the videos and I have enjoyed and learned from everyone I’ve seen. I have Covid and will remember you in my 🙏🏼
Thank you Rich! I hope you are getting better too!
Excellent meter. CREST mode on BM786 works really well. Would be nice to have option to switch off/on the light on BeepLit(TM) function
I like the bar graph on the 79III the best, finer granularity more responsive.
Thanks David! I think the problem with the low count meter is that it has to travel through ranges too much. So unless the measurement is reduced to a small range - the meter has to auto range to the next range and you lose resolution. I like the high count meters that can cover a much larger range without switching up or down to the next range.
@@KissAnalog yep agreed I was thinking the same thing however I've never needed such a large count
Excellent, thank you, I have been eyeing up Dave's meters BM786 and the 121GW for some time now, So impatiently waiting for the review of that one too lol. I do intend to be messing with power supplies and amplifiers etc, I'm in the market for 2 good meters, but Looking for one of them to cover the audio band and a bit more accurately. Oh, and hope you feel better soon!
Thanks so much! I appreciate you! I can't wait to test the 121GW.
Great video! I wish you the quickest recovery.
Thank you! I'm getting better but still not 100%
Oh My God! Whatever you have has made you cough a couple times. Thank goodness you've found the obvious and easy strength to power through this horrible disease. Stay safe indeed.
Thanks so much! I appreciate you!
Nice review.
Regarding the bm786; it has one big competitor and it comes from Brymen itself, and it's the bm867s (the bm869s little brother for 75% it's price)
The bm786 and bm867s are about the same price (here in europe at least, €160), but there are some feature differences I didn't expect, certainly because the bm786 is about 10 years younger.
This bm786 doesnt have a computer interface (either BT or cable, which of course means you can log), which I think is strange for such a feature packed, high count, recently launched multimeter. Sure those Flukes also don't have it, but those are over 15 years old.
It also doesn't have any dual display features, which the bm867s does offer.
So I wonder if it's really progress, in a bm786 vs bm867s comparison:
Dual display/computer interface/500k count versus autohold/autoblip/vfd.
Though choice for a DMM in the €160 price range. Choosing between a Brymen and... a Brymen 😂🤣
Thanks for the great feedback GuidoK! The Brymen meters are very impressive and I do like the models that have dB function which I wish this model had. I have a Greenlee DM-830A meter which I think is similar to the BM867. amzn.to/3HiO71u
@@KissAnalog I think the Greenlee DM-830a is similar to the Brymen BM829, not the BM867s.
The BM867S is a 50.000count meter with 500.000count mode in DC ranges.
The greenlee DM830a is a 9999count meter, like the BM829.
Oh yes, it is a 10k count. Thanks for that!
I’m trying to decide between the 867, the 789 and Dave’s 786. TME’s website doesn’t do a very good comparison of the 789 and the 867. I really like the 869, but I don’t want to spend quite that much for a hobby meter.
@@KissAnalog this BM786 doesn't have dBm?
That never occured to me (I don't have this meter, I have the BM869S). For professional audio work that is indeed a nice function to have. 0,775V 600ohm😁.
Looks like that is pretty exclusive to the bm800 series.
I'm thinking of buying a 2nd meter; but it looks more and more like it's going to be the bm867s (or another bm869s).
I also wonder if this meter has the same calibration procedure (same button presses etc) as the 800 series has. That's a must for me.
Too bad we almost never see a glimps of what's in the pipeline. Is there a new top model coming?
BTW there is a typo in the title of this video, it says EEVblog BM768, and it's of course BM786
Rest and recover. Great video as usualI and I can wait for the next one.
Thanks so much! I'm starting to get over the worst of it - I hope!
I've still got my Techtronic's multimeter from the 80's and its still works to perfection. I've been doing electronics for over 40 years in 3 countries just love the trade.
Thanks for this feedback! I love my Tektronix multimeters;) I need to review them - but then I'm afraid I'll never be able to find them on ebay!! LOL Which models do you have?
@@KissAnalog I have a DM252 Mulitmeter and the DM253 RC MeterPlus Component Checker in ferfect condition and working.
Those are great meters back in the day. I think they're outta business now.
Sold my Fluke 87V and got the Brymen BM867S. Couldn't be happier
My only criticism of the 867/869 is that the auto-ranging bargraph is too low down in the screen area and can be difficult to see.
The BM785 / 786 / 789 seems to have addressed this and is a little bit higher up.
No PC link though which is a shame....
And it can only measure the duty cycle for TTL logic?
Thanks for your feedback! The Brymen meters are very impressive. Yes the Fluke 87 can read the duty cycle of higher voltages, but the Brymen can read crest factor which I think is more useful.
Plastic tips on the shroud is to prevent contact, helping with the safety rating on a loose lead.
Get well soon, I hope no long lasting after effects.
The newest leads I got were Uni T, got them cheap, and they are not bad at all for the price, and feel nice enough. Cost more than the cheapie meter ones, but will last a lot longer in use.
Thank you for the great feedback! I think I'm on the other side and should be good soon;)
Thanks for the tip on the Uni T leads!
13:20 I've seen some electrical guys use that feature to check breaker panels without sticking their hands in.
Thanks - you are so right! Who wants to touch circuits if you don't have to;) But then I've seen some that use their fingers after wetting them in their mouth. EEKS!
Operation in EF mode for BM786 when using probe to touch wire and to detect live wire have to be done not with the red probe but with the black one (COM). According to the manual. In this case it will pickup less interference. When measuring AC you also can press Hz button and measure frequency and a duty cycle. In this mode possible also use REC button with frequency data to see min and max of frequency and / or duty cycle if this fluctuates for some reason. It is not shown I believe in manual
Take your time.
Im waiting patiently for your level of review on the EEVBlog 121GW.
The stars haven't lined up for me to buy one- it's either when I have the money I have to buy another tool or it's sold out...
I have to say this, that older Fluke you were showing still holds its own against those youg'ns.. (when a bar graph is that smooth it helps you track down a loose connection 😉)
Thank you! I'm looking forward to working with the EEVBlog 121GW. It has a nice feel in the hand and has a nice display.
Great review get some rest and don't push it to hard, us fans can wait for your videos while you heal.
Thanks I appreciate you!
Thanks for the review. On the 789 I would have liked the A and the mA function on a different position of the switch, like the 785 has (but it is lacking other functions). Can't easily beat the Fluke for intuitive operation -can't beat the price either though!
Thanks George! I really do like the EEVBlog meter. The feel and operation is so solid!
Hi, thanks for sharing. Where does the BM 789 fall into category can't seem to find very many RUclips videos on that one. Is it not a good meter? Anyone willing to chime in seems that the 786 and the BM 869 to be more popular is that just because it's cheaper or am I missing something? Thanks.
Great question! I think the 789 and 786 are very close and share the same circuit board if I'm not mistaken. It could be a simple thing as a price difference and what is available from common vendors, e.g. Amazon has the 786: amzn.to/46ipMGC
PLEASE TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF!!! You are a great joy to watch and I have lost too much to this pandemic (loved ones as well as my job) -- bobcat
Thank you Bobcat! I appreciate you! It has been a bugger but I'm starting to get better;) I'm sorry about your loss to this pandemic.
what multimeter would you recommend for low voltage (mV) and low current (sub 200mA) range to test electronics in low power circuits?
Great question! I'd say that this EEVBlog BM786 would be a great choice for that. Here is a low cost but great meter: amzn.to/3N2Gkbw
iMeter5 from APPA could be a great option too
Great video, thanks man. I got the BM789 as soon as it was available in the UK. It's my main meter now - the only one that never goes back in its case. I have 3 flukes, one's virtually retired now, one's in the car kit, and one's a backup for the Brymen
Thanks for your feedback! I’m really happy with the BM789. I appreciate you!
Nice collection. If you're not using it you can still sell the flukes as it holds its value well.
Excellent review Eddie, and I certainly would consider a Bryman, the next time I need to purchase a new meter.
Thanks Don! This does seem like a great meter.
It's 9 months later since you posted this video and you still sound sick. Hope you get better!
LOL, I probably always sound sick;)
I'm sold I'm in Australia and definitely grabbing one of these great value metres 😍
Good choice! Thanks for your feedback!
Get BM786 you won't be disappointed. Absolutely fantastic machine...Even ergonomically holding this meter with the left hand and checking with probes with the right hand it possible to operate by left hand buttons with minimal effort.
Hi good review as usual.......im intrested to see you review a Agilentu1242b...i had a fluke since i was 19 a sidepush button on grey colour and used itforover30 yrs till the case dry rot.So i came across the Agilent on ebay and saw some good reviews on it had more functions than the fluke.After i got it was surprised about the sub features...in addition to being accurate.
Thanks for the tip! I do want to get an Agiliant, but I haven't found a great price yet. I have to watch how much I spend on this channel as I spend more than I make;) I'll do it this year though... I also like the Testo meter especially for the low price.
@@KissAnalog well Keysight bought them over
@@KissAnalog yes i was watchin that meter since you did a review....on it...
Yes, I'm actually watching out the the newer Keysight models:)
I wondering, what is the purpose of any 60000-count meter? Usually in those meters that last digit doesn't mean whole a lot.
Thanks for the great question! All meters that I know of have specs for accuracy that include tolerance and how many digits can fluctuate - most times just the last digit but sometimes the last 2 digits - by so many counts. These high count meters give more digits for better accuracy. Do higher digit counts should provide better accuracy and usable digits. Make sense?
@@KissAnalog I guess they should provide better accuracy. But what if a meter's accuracy in many modes is only 0,1% or even 1% yet it has 20000 or even 60000 counts? What is the meaning of those constantly fluctuating last digits? I've seen that quite often with UNI-T upper models. Wouldn't it be better just hide (don't display) those unusable (useless) digits? Besides it's not quite clear what electronics does require such precise measurements. One count of a last digit in a 60000-count meter is worth only 0.00167%, right?
Great questions! Typically the higher count meters that have processors that can resolve those higher counts so also are higher accuracy. The other important bonus - which I try to show with these is that they keep counting (measuring) up in voltage (or current or resistance) higher before they have to switch ranges. So it is like a car with many gears that make it more difficult to feel the car shifting vs a car with 4 gears where the shifting is more clunky. So when you are measuring 6.55 V that's what you get with a 6000 count meter and you understand that you can really only count on the 6.5 V reading as the last digit is less reliable. So with a higher count meter you get 6.555 V reading meaning that you can count on the 6.55 V reading. Make sense?
Don't get me wrong, there is just something about the fluke that you feel confident when measuring mains and 1Kv circuits.....Industrial/mining electrician
You are right, and great example of CAT ratings!! I would feel equally as safe using other top tier meters, i.e., FLIR, Amprobe, Ideal, and Hioki to name a few that are safety certified for CAT IV environments;). But when it comes to mining operations - you want a meter meant to work around explosive atmosphere, and there are only a few meters with that safety rating like the Fluke 28 II.
Why didn't the 87V bleep when it measured a junction. Is it a setting?
Get well soon!!!
Nice videos I really appreciate it...
Thank you so much 😀 I'm finally on the upside of this thing - I hope;)
Glad to see these meters in operation! A lot of comparison of the number of Digits, but what about ACCURACY? The Fluke 79iii seemed to read consistently lower DC and AC voltage, and F87V and BM786 disagreed by several digits. Other than having a larger voltage span before switching ranges, what good are all of those digits if the value is not as accurate? For example, the 100uF capacitor read 107.5/114.5/105.9uf for each of the meters. which was most accurate? The DC offsets were 5.00V/5.1069V/5.009V, with BM786 showing quite a difference. I am also considering the Greenlee DM-830, although I don't like its bargraph (why 41 segments with marks every 4 steps?) Thanks again.
All reviewers simply discard the last two digits with the words "this is normal." But the brymen have a bandwidth of up to 7kHz, as well as a strange method of measuring capacitance. Fluke band up to 20 kHz.
Great questions! If you do the math - they fall within their specs. The BM786 has the better specs in many cases, but for each place on the dial the specs are different, so it does take some time to go thru them all. I've never seen a reviewer show a meter is out of spec. The last digit and maybe 2 in some cases fluctuate beyond the tolerance and is spec'd in +/- digits. The more digits - the better as then you have more digits that are stable and fall within the accuracy. This is why a high count meter is so useful.
Thanks for your feedback. Actually the BM786 bandwidth follows its specs to 7 kHz (most meters go to 1 kHz), but it will read up to 100 kHz but falls out of the tighter specs. The Fluke 87 goes to 20 kHz (not the other Fluke used here). For almost half the money, the BM786 is very impressive. The capacitance measurements of all these meters are not as high tolerance as V, C, and Ohms.
Greenlee meters are Brymen rebranded meters for Greenlee, so that must be why it is not easy to find Brymen meters in the states. The Greenlee DM 860 which I have has a BW out to 100 kHz
Greenlee are rebranded Brymens. I do a lot of audio design and building. I have been using a BK Precision bench multimeter since college and have three cheaper handhelds. I wanted to invest in a better hand held meter and was looking at Flukes but man, too expensive as they were back in the day..... LoL. After much research, I bought a Greenlee dm820a // aka Brymen. It's a hefty meter and does what I need with great ease. I find the continuity response very quick and loud.
Thanks Mark! I also have a BK meter that I've had for many years;) I'll have to review this to show how meters do actually last for a long time if not abused. I have the Greenlee DM830A which I really like. It is a full size meter. I'll have to review that one day.
@@KissAnalog keep up the great content!!!
Thanks Mark!
One moment to be aware of with BM786 is the mV range of 600mV input signal maximum 1000mV as it belived to be DC coupled. This described in the manual
Did Dave ever tell you how we can purchase this meter? It hasn’t been available on Amazon in quite a while.
Depending where you are, german company Welectron carries them and also ships to non-german counttries.
On ebay there is EEVblog user who sells them
I'm torn between this and the 121gw, any input? the reviews are quite mixed on the 121gw...
Thanks for asking! I'll be doing the review on the 121GW very soon;)
@@KissAnalog cheers, I ended up getting the bm786 but might get the 121gw as well for a bit of diversity.
I have been waiting for this video, and now I know why it took you a while! So sorry you caught that crud, and hope you are back to normal soon! I don’t see the meter e en listed on Amazon now. If we buy it directly from Dave, does it only bill us $145 in the US?
Thanks Jay! I appreciate you! I'm not sure about that. I've sent Dave an email to ask what link we should use.
@@KissAnalog Did Dave ever tell you the best way for us to purchase one? I have a birthday coming up!😜
Hi
Why does Fluke 179 multimeter have 2 types of screens?
Why do some have green light and some have white light?
That’s a great question - thanks! I think it was because Fluke changed vendors for these screens. But that was something I heard some where but makes sense why they would change. Or maybe they know their screens are not great and this was supposed to be an upgrade? Maybe works better with the poor backlight?
You coughed on my baby the 786........ Eduardo! Great video Eddie, I hope you start feeling better soon.
LOL - Thanks Joey!
I love Brymen multimeters. For me so far they had only one deficiency - wasn't capable to lit up blue and white LEDs. Now I see that BM786 CAN do that. Amazing, seems I finally found my new multimeter :)
Thanks for this feedback! I too like the Brymen multimeters;)
Honestly speaking, I don't see anything really wrong with the original Fluke leads besides their price if you buy them separate.
Thank you! I find that the Fluke meters that I purchased in recent history have terribly stiff leads (the TL75), and even though they are the same model as my older Flukes have - they are very stiff. They must have changed something and for the price of these meters they should come with much better leads. See this video: ruclips.net/video/JSD9f6I4p8g/видео.html
Hope you are feeling better! Take care.
Thank you Harry! I just am finally getting over this thing;) It was a bear but I'm doing better now;)
But do you like it? 🤣🤣
I just bought this meter 3 days ago and it is on its way! It was so difficult for me to choose a multimeter, but this along with another review of yours put it over the top. I didn't see this review before I bought it just the other review, I am so happy after seeing this video.
There are some concepts I need to learn about. My first project will be recapping and modifying my Hafler DH-220 pre-amp from the mid-80s. Thanks!
I think the BM786 is an amazing meter - especially at the cost. I think you will have fun with the Hafler preamp. Please let us know how you like it;)
@@KissAnalog will do thank you. I need to review your video, I thought you said that AC and DC could be on the same signal, you kind of lost me as I didn't think that was possible. I'll go back and listen again. Thanks for your VERY helpful reviews, I am thrilled I bought this meter.
@@KissAnalog I just noticed I referred to the DH-220 as a pre-amp, the DH-220 is an amp, I have it also. But my first project will be the DH-110 Hafler pre-amp. A company called Musical Concepts makes upgrade boards, kits and components for it. After that I'll get into the DH-220 Amp. Next purchases are a vacuum solder suckerer and isolation transformer, if you have any suggestions.
By the way, the meter was supposed to arrive tomorrow the 22nd, it is arriving today!
Under promising and over delivering is a terrific business goal.
What I mean is there can be a ripple voltage on the DC, so essentially it can be looked at as an AC wave riding on a DC voltage. Also, there could be an AC signal offset with a DC voltage. That's why the higher end meters can read AC + DC and show them both in the display.
I like the Hafler equipment. My friend has some after I talked him into it - and he loved it for years.
Hi I'm interesting in purchasing a BM789 but I want to know what is the difference to the BM786. Any info would be great thanks.
They are both great meters but the BM789 adds a few more features: AutoV LoZ, dBm, a second temperature probe, and 100MHz bandwidth. But check me to be sure;) Here's the link to the BM786: amzn.to/3O8IB7O
@@KissAnalog Thanks for your help and info.
Dude rest and get well. Thanks for the effort in making the video. And by the way, i agree with you, Flukes are overpriced. Your arguments about it are solid
I appreciate it! Thank you!
I can't understand who buys these flukes. They are so expensive and you can get an el cheapo meter that does the job for a fraction of the price.
I no have much money , so i use pros'kit multimeter only. I hope to buy a one fluke in future.
Thanks but there are many meter less expand better IMHO;)
EEVBlog and Kiss ... 1 and 2 on the must watch list. (No particular order).
Thanks so much! I'm happy to be on a must watch list with the likes of EEVBlog;)
LEADS... the small caps on leads... I think the reason they come on brand news leads is... TO GIVE SUPPORT DURING STOREAGE, so the ends do not sqash down. Or, the obvious, dirt does not get in.
Thanks! Yes I think you are correct.
When calibration will be required, how it can be done for BM786? What is the process?
That’s a great question! But I have a question; why would a calibration be required? Most people don’t realize today that a calibration, especially with multimeters, is not a matter of dialing in some pots to get correct readings. It is simply a verification that the meter still reads correctly. Today or even meters made 30 years ago, things just don’t drift much. Large chips do most of the work. If you are running a test for a customer that requires your equipment to be calibrated, then send out to a cal lab that handles these certificates.
@@KissAnalog This is fine, yet aging and temperature etc exposure and slow change in values of capacitors and non linear character of the changes etc will affect this over the period I would say one year? Since all coefficients are in the chipset this is unlikely these will change. And from the practical point of view it is better (cheaper) just to buy a new meter after few years if the procedure kept "secret" from users? I mean after all if this reads close enough it is fine for most practical applications as long as it within the specs..but this is the whole point of calibration? Some doing comparison now and then between groups of meters and tend to think this is the "practical enough". It just simply would put this meter way ahead of the crowd. The meter is so great and well designed that if it ever breaks (which i cannot see how it is would be happening since even the much lower meters are still good enough after several 5-7 years etc) we simply will buy two more just to have it since it ticks all boxes for a very good and well thought meter, never mind if batteries consumption slightly higher, but this is resolvable via use of lithum batteries etc. What surprises really that once you start working with this meter, ergonomically it is just hits the right spot (light could be less brighter for a total darkness..may be..and would love to see glowing buttons for e.g. and red diode on continuity and nS range to 200nS and internal temperature displayed when no leads shorted for that, stright after rotating dial but this is all not critical just would be nice to have. One engineer mentioned to me that dual temperature is the "wow factor" in another Brymen he has. All I did is a switch attachement between two K-probes..to get close function...Yes, you cannot "measure the difference"..but you have relative button I said to him and with the switch of two K pairs you can..measure the difference..and technically this is better approach as it does not requered "this specific with dual probes" mode multimeter. In fact the switch has three positions 1-internal temperature, 2- K1 and 3d - K3 temperature..And it all just works wonders when chasing a difference in certain cituations..Continuing down this path and very soon it will have hFE simple attachement..
Thanks for your feedback. Meters built in the last 20 years or so will not go out of calibration for years - the caps and resistors simply do not change that much. Calibrations do not adjust the measurements - they simply show that the meter is still in working order - and therefore providing correct measurements.
it will take many years for a meter to fall out of calibration because of drift. If you are doing work for the military or big customers - then you need to show that your equipment is in cal - which simply means in good working order.
This meter can be calibrated by a calibration shop just as most other quality meters. If you don't have the expensive equipment to certify calibration - then there is no need to calibrate.
I really like the overall review of usability for the meters. However, I noticed that you spent a lot of time talking about the counts for the meters but you sort of glossed over whether or not those count readings were any good. Both of the meters had pretty divergent readings, so what good is the count if they aren't true to any sort of standard? I guess, if you could do some sort of follow up with precision standards so we can see just how good the meters are?
Thanks Marc! Great feedback! I need to show how both meters are in cal, but what the range of values can be - and how the final digits have +/- digit resolution. All meters have a resolution issue with the final digit and sometimes the final 2 digits - which goes beyond the tolerance spec'd.
what meter in the fluke lineup is the most direct equivalent to this one?
Fluke 189
I agree with @Fun Cool, but a Fluke that is currently in production - maybe the 87 V, but it doesn't quite stack up.
So a 289. I already have a 189 so i guess no need to duplicate
I hope you and your family are well now! I do not hope it has been to hard.
LOL, yes the Brymen multimeters are on another level and has shown itself as a worthy contender as the top meter. I am wondering if the very, very expensive Gossen is better, but I doubt it.
Lastly, maybe you could ask the former CEO to contact you when you make the next video about Micro cap? It would be fantastic if you could get contact to him!! :-)
Thanks Fried Mule! I appreciate you! I am feeling better and will get on with videos again;) I'll try to reach out again and see if I can get a response, but sadly I think he may have finally retired;)
I shall be purchasing that brymen very soon. The 786.
That's a good choice I think.
Is it worth paying more to keep your fellow Americans employed? I mean....what if they looked at YOUR product or service and said they could get it cheaper from overseas or from a foreign worker? Where does it end?
Great question - and I am with you - but most Flukes are made overseas, and their designs are 20 plus years old, so we are not even supporting the engineering.
So - unless it is said to be made in America - it is likely made overseas.
The only one you are supporting is the stock holders - the wealthy. I don't like that. I also show other actual American companies like Ideal, Extech, and Flir. And yes, while their stuff is manufactured overseas - at least they have engineering here in the states...
@@KissAnalog I even try to buy North America as opposed to overseas. And if overseas then Taiwan. I don't know. I've been preaching buy made in USA since I was 14 years old in 1970 and I don't think anyone cared not one iota. Nobody cares at all. I first became aware of Buy Made in USA when they built a new bridge in our town. The Iron Workers hung a sign off the bridge that said: "Buy Made in USA. The Job You Save May Be Your Own."
Then I noticed all the foreign cars in our small town of 5,000 as I rode my bike down the blocks. Back then it was VW Beetles and Toyotas and Datsuns. It started out with dads buying their daughters an affordable car for college. Next thing you know dad is driving a Camry. And the rest is history. The new hire kids at work are young enough to be my grand kids......I doubt the subject even crosses their mind.
@@KissAnalog At work now I find myself checking out a Fluke 1587 instead of using my own meter. The 1587 includes a meggar. I love it. I'm not sure where it's made though.
I know what you mean - I bought american made cars up until my last one... I just couldn't afford the repairs anymore. Today it seems that 'Made in America' is very hard to find. I like the Ideal meters as they are still an american company;)
I have the 1587 too, but I'm bugged that they have not tried to keep up or drop their prices a little to compete. The new generation doesn't care who they are...so one day they are going to wake up and say - what happened??
Wow, why not try a Fluke with same specs?
Thanks for the great question! What Fluke would that be? I show one that is only a bit higher in price and one that is around double the price, but as you point out - they don't compete in specs to the BM786.
Does the EEVBlog meter only support 600V?
Great question! It is the same as the 87V, it is 600V in CAT V and 1kV in CAT III.
Fluke is going down the same road as IBM, the big name facto 😳i use Fluke when there is an intense break-down on the factory floor and lots of engineers are involved, no one doubts Fluke 😵💫 however 90% of the time i use good quality hobby test equipment with great results 🥳and the BM768 is tempting 🤔 hope you get feeling better covid is a wild subject 👳♀ PS i purchased a: $56 YR2050 Milliohm Meter Handheld DC Micro Ohm Meter Low Resistance Meter Tester for example: 1Ω 0.01mΩ ±(0.12%+0.03%) not much English but it seems to work ⛷☕🥧 thanks
Thanks for the great feedback - and tip on the milliohm meter! I appreciate you!
The BM786 really does kick Fluke butt. Wow. Amazing video. Thank you!
It is a far better meter IMHO;) Thank you!
@@KissAnalog Indeed. So much so that I was led to wonder if the BM786 might even match the 121GW meter. I put a detailed comment under your 121GW review video, by the way. Look forward to seeing more info on that! Thank you!
this multimeter is obtained with the green lee brand the DM860A, but the DM830A is the same as the fluke 87 v with a little more functions these green lee multimeter are excellent nothing to compare to fluke ok
A speed recovery for you. Best wishes!
Thanks so much! Feeling better but not over it yet:(
Great information. Thanks.
Thank you!
Brymen does a nice job. They somehow remind of a German design/construction than Asian.
You ought to reach out to Rohde & Schwarz and Fluke to see if they'll loan you one of their handheld oscilloscopes for demonstration/review. I'm conflicted between the R&S RTH1022 Scope Rider and the Fluke 190-102-III ScopeMeter. The RTH1022 is on sale until 31 Mar 2022...decisions, decisions.
Thanks Boyd! I'd like to get my hands on both scopes. I've used the Fluke but not the R&D. From the specs, I think I'd go for the R&D for the 10bit vertical res and the larger screen that is also better utilized. Have you considered for less than half the price, the MicSig STO2302C which is now 300MHz , and has a larger screen, 2GSa/s, 280Mpts (far deeper memory). amzn.to/32IWILX
Unless you need a compact portable unit, this is a lot of money for what you get (unless the MicSig works). For instance, a PicoScope gives a whole lot more for that amount;)
@@KissAnalog I believe it was one of your reviews that turned me on to Micsig. I did look at the STO2302C, but I'm requiring a handheld instrument and for all the I/Os to be completely isolated. I looked at their MS200 series also, as well as Pico. But, just like you, I am leaning hard towards the R&S Scope Rider...with the promotional discount and additional member discounts from TEquipment (and possibly I can negotiate an additional battery be thrown in the deal) it seems like the best deal around for possibly the best handheld on the market.
Coincidentally a R&S CS Rep called me last week about my opinions on some R&S webinars I've attended lately and during the conversation I mentioned the Scope Rider and Fluke's ScopeMeter possibly in the same sentence hehehe. He did say he'll give my contact info to my regional R&S sales rep and setup a dog and pony meet and greet lunch at our office. Maybe they'll let me have a Scope Rider for 30 days free for field evaluation. Really the only reason I'm looking at the Fluke ScopeMeter is because the "III" version is fairly new and the R&S Scope Rider came out about six years ago.
Anyway, glad to hear you're on the downside and hopefully can kick the cough quickly and it doesn't linger even after your totally negative and feeling good otherwise.
Thanks Boyd! I think the Fluke has been around for awhile (hardware) so it seems more dated to me. I like the controls and the display on the R&S. Also, the 10bit res is very nice and usually found only on more expensive scopes. It also has deeper memory. I don't think you will be disappointed;) Actually I do have my Tek THS730 with all that came with it that I'm going to put up for sale;)
thanks for the reviews. I like blue and cheaper than a yellow fluke.
Thank you! I have to agree with you;)
It seems the Brymen does not show the bargraph in mV mode and it’s a lot slower in that setting as well compared to the two Flukes.
Still it’s a better meter functionality-wise over them and I think it sits in between the Fluke 87V and the old 187/189 (which still is my favorite and always go-to meter) even though it’s age.
He has the meter (accidentally?) in AC+DC mode. In that mode the bargraph always disappears and I guess refresh is always slower as 2 measurements + calculations have to be made.
In normal mode the bargraph just shows in mV range as it shows in V range.
Thanks for correcting me there. It took me a minute to realize that the meter has that great function of remembering the last setting;)
@@KissAnalog ..human factor encountered .. :)
Dave's meter is £205 on Amazon as of right now
Thanks for the update. It is a great meter.
The Fluke tends to hold up well and has exceptional resale value.
So does the UN-T 139C ..it held well for 5 years and was donated increasing its value ten times in the eyes of the receiver..
Good to know. Buy what you like.
I wish you could buy the EEV stuff in canada
I didn’t know that was a problem. Can you buy it direct from Australia?
@@KissAnalog there's a 786 by a third party seller on Amazon but a fluke 87 costs more do its obviously marked up. There's a brymen Canada site but I haven't a/b the features. I'm happy with my meters for now. I need an lcr because I have a bunch of coils and common mode chokes and such. I have like 5 aneng 870s ordered now so I'll have to hound the wife hahaha.
I want to build a working smps. I figure I need an lcr meter for the parts I have to put them in the best spots. I'm leaning towards an older hold peak even though it looks like an 80s hand held game but allegedly performs better than the mesr 500 which is actually cheaper.
@@KissAnalog I got a really nice powered 7000 tie point breadboard that can take up to 300v 4amps haha it can output 2 separate voltages and has other features. I got it from Amazon dirt cheap and it was super expensive on digikey. I don't expect the smps to be efficient or anything. The only thing I need is the driver ic that switches the mosfets and connects to the feedback.
Man, Eddie just duzn’t likes ole’ Fluke meters?! 😯
Hope Youre doing well these Days.
I read one of your comments on some blog, and You were raging about the 15B/17B+ meters! Wow
So I’m still gonna ask You what’s your thoughts on the Fluke 117, and the 107? Intended use is in Electrical, not electronics. EEVblog reviewed the 117 and ave it a thumbs up, just wondering what say You? Take care stay safe and well.
Thanks for asking. I have to tell you - for most of my engineering life I loved Fluke - it was all I knew. Now that I have started this channel, I see how much I have missed. The 117 is great - at half the price. There are a number of meters that are far better for the price IMHO. The Testo 760-2 is a fantastic example. It comes with very nice silicone leads and has a much better dispaly - no comparison. IMHO it beats the 117 in every function and feature. I think Dave is awesome - but look who advertises on his Blog. I have no affiliation with anyone. No one pays me anything - never has. So, it is my honest humble opinion as an engineer working in the field as an engineer for more than 25 years;) This channel has opened my eyes;) Maybe if I were like other channels I'd not have to work a real day job;)
@@KissAnalog Thanks for the replies. I have to tell You, I respect your opinion, and your knowledge, and my ole’ brain tries to learn something from each video of Yours. 😆
I DO agree that prices on some of these older Flukes are high. 117 doesn’t need to be priced at the nearly $300.00 USD! I. guess Fluke needs the money? I picked up a new one for a little over $210.00. I’m not EVEN going to ask YOU about the 15B+/ 17B+ METERS!
I will have to look into this Testo 760-2 You speak of. I will see if You have a review of it on your channel. Appreciate You and your knowledge and experience. Take care!
whats vfd?
Great question! The VFD feature is for (Variable Frequency Drive), and it is essentially a low pass filter meant to filter the noise from a motor. It should be a good feature whenever the power line noise is bad.
@@KissAnalog Is that similar to VFC?
Do you mean Voltage to Frequency Conversion?
Hi, I loved how you replied on every single comment of this video.>❤❤❤❤❤❤
Thanks so much! I appreciate you! I first go to subscribers - and then as I have time I try to get to them all. Some have questions that might take some time to answer;)
get well soon
Thanks so much! I appreciate you!
For some reason, I've seen a bunch of these anti-Fluke videos pop up in my list. I can agree that there may be better value DVMs, the majority of Flukes are bought by companies and corporates. They can quantify the cost of a fatal or serious accident (in my country, $5m), and the Fluke reputation for fail-safe operation, whether deserved or not, makes it a no-brainer. The global mining company I worked for had one serious accident with a non-Fluke multimeter, where it blew up in an electrician's face, and banned anything else worldwide. Some bean counter thought he could save a couple thousand $ a year, and as a result, blinded and nearly killed someone.
Around the house, I have several DVMs, and tend to use whatever is handiest when working on DC, but only use the Fluke when working on mains.
You are farting against thunder.
Thanks Neil for the feedback! In mining work you need to use a meter that is safety certified to work in explosive atmospheres. Fluke makes the 27 for that purpose and it does cost more - which in this case it is worth it.
Unfortunately, Fluke will lose its hold and the newer generation will buy other meters that are just as safe with better functionality at half the price. I was a Fluke fan until starting this channel and lifted my head out of the fog. Many large companies (like the defense contractors that I worked for) buy Fluke without thinking. Not that they are the safest, but because there are so many other expensive equipment to buy that the multimeter isn't even considered. That will change.
well, Fluke was also sued in a different mining company case, so there's no guarantee even with Fluke.
I can't understand why people pay so much for a fluke when cheaper meters can do the job. But I guess it's the reputation kinda liked Mercedes vs Volkswagen. Both gets the job done but one carries a prestige and reputation so if you're not using a fluke customers don't take you seriously.
Thete are plenty of descriptions can be found where serious incidents occured and electricians died unfortunately in these events and they were using Fluke's multimeters. I would not idealised *any* meter.
Get better soon
Is there a way to add a question about a off topic question? Looking to model old railway relays from the 79's thru 90's such as the now used Siemens st-1's. How can I simulate these relays in something such as Micro-Cap. I just watched your video on switches in Micro-Cap.. The ones I am trying to model and simulate are multi-pole and both neutral, neutral-biased and polarized relays. I was hoping for a library of these but I cant find one that exists.Any help appreciated
Dan
Thanks so much! I'm resting as much as possible;)
All DMMs are certified and tested in the same way, no matter what brand it is. I don't like when products are rated by their appearance. "Measurement confidence, robustness, reliable parts" can be found in any known brand. In fact, I remember about the GSM issue of the 87V, but it's still seen as a "robust design", even if it's the only meter doing this. What measurement confidence to expect if it might be influenced by electric/magnetic fields. I don't think it's worth the price for the look & feel of Fluke meters and has nothing to do with the quality and certification.
Thanks for your feedback! I really like this BM786!
Totally agree with your comments on the Fluke leads. They're cheap garbage. Absolutely no reason they shouldn't all have silicone leads considering the price they charge. Shame on Fluke!
Thank you!
768 hands down!
Only one Brymen BM869s
That's an excellent meter! I need to get one;)
The auto hold of the fluke is much better but the fact it doesn't have a manual hold is a deal breaker for me
Thanks Lewis - I agree - a manual hold should be a standard option.
👍👍
Thank you!!
I know fluke is making a ton of money, but I wonder if they really know how much they are loosing by not innovating like their competitors are?
Fantastic point! It might be too late when the tide turns…
blue is your color!
Thank you! I appreciate you!
Fluke rocks.
Or you might say Fluke is on the rocks;) IMHO, the BM786 is far better than the 20 plus year old designs.
Fluke 87V ….. one meter to rule them all. The 87V is the king.
It sure is - in price:) JK
Oh men ..!
Apparently you have a bad cold and the flu😓😪☹
LOL Yeah it has been a bad one. Missed a whole week of work.
@@KissAnalog Do not push yourself too hard man. Maybe have a try on that covid self test too, just to be on the safe side...
Thank you! The self test came back positive:(
@@KissAnalog Well, f*ck.
Edit: Consult a doctor and take care. May you get well soon!
Thanks so much!
So I use meters at work all the time...so check in with this channel from time to time...one thing I've noticed...is the number of times you compare other meters to Fluke...the only conclusion is that Fluke is the best - roll your dice with this other meter you recommend. I have Fluke meters and other meters I cannot even remember their names. EVEN in your "Fluke rant" your talk about Fluke meters. If anyone takes anything away from your meter vids is that (as I stated above) Fluke is the best and roll your dice with these other meters I like.
Thanks for the feedback - but I'm dissapointled that you haven't actually watched these comparison videos - as you would have simply found that Fluke (IMHO) does not stand up to the competition. I too have sadly used Fluke my whole career up until I started this channel. I have since found so many better meters - as the EEVBlog BM786 for example. Yes, I use Fluke as a comparison - so that people like me that have used Flukes for so long and have that as their only reference - that I find it a great way to compare. Especially since Flukes are so over priced - again my opinion. Of course I talked about Flukes in my rant - it was about the over priced Fluke;) They are not only overpriced, but they provide the worst test leads in the industry - IMHO. I find it crazy that people know this and know that they will replace the junk leads for silicone leads as soon as they buy their beloved Fluke. So, if you have been paying attention - there are many meters out there for lower cost that out perform the Flukes. So, I review other meters so that you don't have to roll the dice. There are great meter brands out there - even the Amprobe AM570 which is owned by the same company that owns Fluke - which is far better option and comes with awesome test leads. But misconstrue what I say, suggest, and recommend - and buy Fluke if you like. There are fan boys and there are educated buyers - and at this channel I hope to educate the buyers. But of course - this is all IMHO;)